City West helps to lay the foundations for young people’s future

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The Salford Foundation Team in the refurbished garden at City West’s Community Resource Centre in Swinton

Teenagers are getting the chance to learn new skills and boost job prospects thanks to Salford Foundation and City West Housing Trust.

Salford Foundation delivers the government’s National Citizen Service programme to 16 and 17 year-olds in Salford with the support of the social landlord who have provided a number of opportunities to work on community projects across Salford.

A total of 16 young people from Swinton took part in a week-long team-building trip to The Conway Centre, Wales, before heading to Manchester Metropolitan University for a taste of independent living in student accommodation.

Tom, from Walkden in Salford, is now a graduate mentor with Salford Foundation after participating in a previous course. He said: “I found NCS a life changing experience and one I’ll never forget. I made lifelong friends and a new found confidence.”

“I’ve now got the skills that employers want to see – like how to be a team player.”

“It’s been incredible to get involved in a project with City West that has a direct impact on the community, it’s a great way to give something back for all the fun we’ve had, and put all the skills we learnt to use.”

After returning from their trip, the group worked to identify an area where they could make a difference for the people of Salford – and chose to work with the housing association to renovate the garden at the landlord’s Community Resource Centre in Swinton.

The teenagers have spent the past two weeks working hard to transform the garden into a vibrant area for residents.

Viv Simon, Head of Enterprise at City West, said: “The group has done a fantastic job in renovating the garden – the skills they’ve learnt and the effort they have put in really shows.

“With a tough job climate, it’s important that we provide young people with every opportunity to give them the skills to stand out from the crowd – something we’re dedicated to doing for all our customers.”

Since 2008, the landlord has created over 250 jobs through its training and skills programmes and by ensuring a job is created for a local person for every £1 million it spends on improving its homes.

Viv adds: “Without easy access to training and qualifications, many people struggle to make a career for themselves.

“By working in partnership with external agencies on schemes like the National Citizen Service, we are ensuring our customers can find a career and unlock a brighter future.”

To date, City West – which owns 14,600 homes across Salford – has supported 48 young people in completing the NCS programme, and will continue to support Salford Foundation with its delivery of the NCS programme in the 2014/2015.

If you are interesting in learning more about the scheme, or wish to sign up, please get in contact with the NCS team at Salford Foundation by calling 01617873838 or email ncs@salfordfoundation.org.uk.